Moral Constraints on IDF Soldiers Jeopardize Lives, Project Argues
A project named "Naz"A" (Hebrew for "Moral Hazard") is reigniting a critical debate in Israel regarding the ethical constraints placed on IDF soldiers, arguing they endanger lives and hinder victory. The project contends that the IDF's adherence to a "distorted" code of combat ethics, which prioritizes the protection of enemy civilians, directly risks the lives of its own soldiers. This is presented not as collateral damage, but as genuine harm to Israeli forces.
The article contrasts the IDF's approach with that of the enemy, stating that adversaries do not prioritize their civilians' safety and often use them as human shields, citing the October 7th attacks where civilians joined the perpetrators. While acknowledging the IDF's high moral values, the author suggests this has led to confusion within the military. The current ethical and legal framework, particularly concerning senior command and the military justice system, is deemed in urgent need of change.
The piece criticizes the IDF for adhering to stricter standards than international law requires, sometimes at significant risk to soldiers. It argues that true combat morality is not measured by international public relations or the number of enemy civilians unharmed, but by achieving victory and defeating the enemy. The article invokes the Jewish principle, "If someone comes to kill you, rise early to kill him," asserting that a state's and army's primary moral duty is to protect its own citizens and soldiers, not sacrifice them for flawed ideologies.
It questions how many soldiers have been lost or injured due to this "moral confusion," where soldiers are allegedly hampered by complex legal considerations before engaging threats, fearing investigations even for false accusations. The article also criticizes sending ground troops into dangerous, booby-trapped areas to avoid aerial attacks, framing it as prioritizing enemy civilians, some of whom support terrorism, over Israeli soldiers. The military legal system and prosecution are accused of tying the IDF's hands, making it vulnerable to psychological warfare. The author concludes that a morality not leading to victory and defense is a danger, advocating for the removal of legal shackles, full backing for soldiers, and a focus on decisive victory, grounded in Jewish ethical values.
